BOURNEMOUTH’S annual pride festival brought a blaze of colour and fun to the town at the weekend.

Beginning on Friday, Bourne Free – Bournemouth’s Pride Festival – saw celebrations taking place across the town all weekend, in particular at the arena in The Triangle.

Saturday lunchtime saw the parade leave the East Cliff before making its way around the town and up to The Triangle, with this year’s theme being Treasure Island.

Groups from around the town and further afield took part, dressing up as pirates as they partied in cars, stretch limousines, on lorries and on foot as the procession made its way through central Bournemouth.

There were performers throughout the day and into the night at The Triangle, including drag acts, DJs and live music, while there was family entertainment in the Lower Gardens during the afternoon.

Trustee Chris Ashton said: “There were more than 500 people in the parade this year, it’s getting bigger every year. Because we’ve put a family angle on it, it’s for the whole community.

“By involving the community it’s got bigger. It’s about promoting diversity and we want to make sure everyone can enjoy the event. It’s a fun day for everyone to enjoy.”

The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender celebration began in the town in 2004 and now attracts thousands of people. There was also a chance to find out about support available through a stand manned by Bournemouth and Poole council representatives in the Lower Gardens.